Step 1 — Confirm where you actually call
Check ship documents for South Queensferry / Forth versus Newhaven or Leith. If the paperwork only says “Edinburgh,” ask the shore desk before you buy timed Castle tickets that assume a city-centre start. The port guide explains why the distinction matters.
Step 2 — Budget the middle of the day only
Sketch the middle hours you will actually be in town. Leave the first chunk for landing and inbound transfer; leave the last chunk for outbound traffic and ship requirements. What sits in the middle is your honest sightseeing budget.
Step 3 — Pick one primary focus
- Castle-led day: timed entry, esplanade buffers, then a short Royal Mile stretch — not every close.
- Mile & museums: skip or abbreviate the Castle when queues or hours make it greedy.
- Call-point day: Forth views or Leith waterfront when the city window is too thin.
Sample shapes (not fixed itineraries)
Longer Newhaven / Leith window
Transfer in → Castle or major museum → selective Mile → early return with traffic margin. See Newhaven planning notes.
Forth / South Queensferry window
Landing + coach or road in → one headline stop → photograph and café buffer → disciplined return. Details in South Queensferry guide.
What we will not invent
No fake coach times, no published prices, no live availability. If you want a second opinion on your hours and interests, enquire by email.